MDPHP is a synthetic stimulant derived that has gained popularity in countries like the UK and the US over the last several decades for its ability to temporarily increase a user’s focus, motivation, and energy levels while under its influence. It’s been identified as a novel designer drug or legal high.
Here, we outline a complete MDPHP research chemical review which includes general information about MDPHP, the history of the drug, information on dosage and administration, other user experiences, and potential side effects.
General Information on MDPHP
MDPHP (full name methylenedioxy-alpha-pyrrolidinohexiophenone) is a synthetic cathinone that also goes by the name of “monkey dust” in some communities, especially in the United Kingdom. Cathinones are naturally occurring psychoactive compounds found in the native African khat bush that induce stimulant-like effects when used by humans. MDPHP shares a similar molecular structure and similar effects, but is man-made in a lab. It’s typically used for recreational purposes.
MDPHP is most widely available in powder form (hence the alias “monkey dust”), but can also be found in crystal form as well as in capsule or pill form. Users may also encapsulate the powder form at home. MDPHP typically has a brownish or off-white color when in pure form, but it is often mixed with other substances and may take on more of an off-white color in these formulations.
There isn’t sufficient documentation to infer whether or not MDPHP is detectable, but because it shares a similar molecular structure and effects with other synthetic cathinones, it can reasonably be assumed that it may also appear in a blood or urine analysis.
History of MDPHP
MDPHP was first synthesized by a German pharmaceutical company in the 1960s. MDPHP is closely related to another well-known stimulant by the name of MDPV, which was made illegal in the UK and the US (as well as a handful of other countries) in the early 2000s.
Following the ban on MDPV, MDPHP became popular for its similar effects and widespread recreational use of the substance became more common. Users that have experience with both stimulants describe MDPHP as having more mild effects than its predecessor.
In Japan and Hungary, MDPHP is classified as a controlled substance. Elsewhere, it remains technically legal, but possession and distribution may be prosecutable under umbrella laws that outlaw synthetic cathinones or stimulants. Check with your local jurisdiction before attempting to procure MDPHP for recreational or research purposes.
Today, it’s available virtually everywhere. It’s distributed online by research chemical suppliers and individuals, depending on your locale. Different forms of MDPHP may be labeled as monkey dust, bath salts, or research chemicals. Potential suppliers should be vetted for legitimacy and quality, as MDPHP is often mixed with other substances and marketed incorrectly as “pure”, like many other legal highs today.
Dosage and Administration
Legal drugs, like any substance, bear risks as well as potential benefits. MDPHP should be used carefully by both experienced and new users. Accurate dosage and an understanding of all the potential negative effects is crucial to responsible use.
The effects of MDPHP can differ based on:
- the dosage amount and frequency
- the user’s health, height, and weight
- the user’s previous experience with the substance
- additional substances used at the same time, including prescription medications
- the method of administration
- the user’s tolerance of this or similar substances
When administering any substance, use a test kit or strips to ensure the legitimacy of the drug and follow harm reduction protocols like sober supervision for the best outcome. MDPHP is often mixed with other substances and users should exercise caution with every interaction, even when using a trusted supplier.
It’s recommended to start with a small dose initially and then increase the dosage as you become more familiar with the effects and the way your body reacts to MDPHP.
Between 10-40mg of MDPHP per 100 lbs. of body weight is a typical dose for administration via the following methods:
Oral Administration
MDPHP can be administered orally in capsule or pill form, dissolved on the tongue, or mixed with a drinking liquid, or ingested via a process called “bombing” or “parachuting”. In this process, the powder is wrapped in a single layer of tissue or rolling paper, and swallowed. Oral dosage is typically a little higher than an insufflation or suppository dose. Users report a mildly bitter aftertaste that subsides quickly when orally administering doses.
Nasal Insufflation
In powder form, MDPHP can be insufflated nasally or “snorted”, which will shorten the time from dosing until the onset of the effects and often causes a “rush” sensation. Users with nasal sensitivity may find this method to be uncomfortable or mildly painful, but many experienced users report that insufflating MDPHP doesn’t cause an intense burning sensation compared to other cathinones. They do, however, advise nasal irrigation after insufflation to prevent accidental redosing or waste, as some find that the powder remains in the nasal passages long after the final dose.
Vaporization
Like many similar stimulants, MDPHP can also be vaporized or smoked and inhaled using a vaporizer or pipe. Users report that the powder form does not dissolve well in propylene glycol, unlike other stimulants, and it often requires a liquid with a higher acidity level to fully dissolve the substance before attempting to vaporize it.
Suppository
MDPHP can also be suspended in a liquid or encapsulated and inserted into the rectum to speed up the onset of the effects or as an alternative to snorting or oral administration. This method of administration typically doesn’t alter the effects of the substance.
Redosing
Some users prefer to redose when they start to feel the effects wear off. If you’re experiencing negative side effects, it’s not recommended to redose. MDPHP use is often accompanied by a compulsion to redose, so exercise caution when making the choice to continue with a subsequent administration. When redosing, aim to use an equal or lesser amount than the initial dose until you know how the drug reacts in your system. Users typically recommend redosing with 10-20 mg orally every few hours to increase the duration of the effects.
User MDPHP Reviews
Research chemical reviews are often self-reported and should be taken anecdotally, not as evidence or fact. The timelines and effects mentioned here are an approximation based on the self-reported experience of other users. The MDPHP review is a reflection of several users’ personal experiences and may or may not be replicated.
Onset of Effects
Depending on the method of administration, expect effects to set in anywhere from 30-90 minutes. Some users report feeling a brief initial “rush” sensation but the effect subsides within 15-20 minutes. Depending on the dosage and method of administration, users can expect the effects to last between 6-10 hours, peaking around 3 hours after initial dose.
Increased Motivation & Focus
Users report increased levels of motivation, heightened focus and alertness, and a mild-to-moderate energy boost under the influence of MDPHP. These effects may differ in intensity depending on the method of administration.
Decreased Inhibition
Some users experience decreased inhibition as a result of administering MDPHP. The effect is reportedly mild with typical dosages and generally doesn’t inspire recklessness or unbridled courage, unlike other synthetic stimulants or alcohol. This effect is often reversed during the anticlimax and may entice users to redose to avoid feelings of anxiety and overwhelm.
Mild Euphoria
Many users experience mild feelings of euphoria as a result of administering MDPHP, as well as increased empathy or emotional satisfaction. This phase lasts approximately 6-10 hours depending on the dosage and frequency of re-administration.
Anticlimax
The anticlimax or “comedown” for MDPHP may vary in intensity depending on the dosage, frequency and user. Many users report feeling increased anxiety and paranoia as well as mild uncontrollable shaking. This type of reaction is reported to be more prevalent in users that consistently redose to prolong the effects, but it may also affect users that administer a large single dose. MDPHP is also known to cause insomnia and disrupted sleep if users administer it within 12 hours of attempting sleep. The anticlimax may begin to set in around 6-10 hours after the initial dose if no redose is administered.
Potential Side Effects of MDPHP
As with any substance, there are potential negative side effects of MDPHP. Some of the potential side effects include (but aren’t limited to):
- Fever
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Reduced appetite
- Sweating
- Hyperthermia
- Increased levels of agitation
- Vomiting
- Tremor
- Chest pain
- Hypertension
- Seizures
- Heightened anxiety
- Impaired motor coordination
- Paranoia
- Hallucinations
- Death
If you experience severe negative effects, contact your local emergency department and let them know the dosage and frequency of MDPHP that you have self-administered to prevent reactions with other drugs they may prescribe to prevent further harm.
